In a town where public smoking was banned for six months, the rate of heart attack admissions went down by 60 per cent. When smoking is banned in workplaces and public spaces, not only is the environment pleasanter, but people who do smoke are encouraged to cut down and quit. Now, in addition to this, there's evidence of a direct benefit on public health.

 Public smoking was banned in Helena, Montana, for six months. Then the ban was lifted by a legal challenge. Researchers checked records at the nearby hospital for heart attack admissions, comparing rates before and after the ban, and also looking at rates in other hospitals outside the area. During the ban, the rate of heart attack admission went down by 60 per cent.

This shows that smoke has a direct effect on the heart and circulation which makes a heart attack more likely. It's probable that inhaled second hand smoke can make the blood more likely to clot in those who are already at risk. This new study will give more ammunition to those who would like to see the idea of banning public smoking extended.

Source

American College of Cardiology Meeting 1st April 2003